I have been following the recent off-duty events reported about Minneapolis police officers. As I often told officers in the past, there will be days when you will be less proud of putting on the uniform of the Minneapolis Police Department. The recent incidents reported should embarrass and concern anyone who has worn a uniform and their families. These difficult times are reminders that the people behind those badges are human beings. They are not perfect; they never will be perfect.

Recent studies show that about 50 percent of us believe that racism is alive and well in America. They show that more than 1 in 10 of us are alcoholics and that more than 40 percent of us get obnoxiously drunk at least once a year.

The MPD has about a thousand employees — 90 percent of whom are sworn officers. It is one of the highest-educated and the most diverse police departments in the Midwest, and one of the most progressive departments in the nation. I know department leaders will deal with those who do not meet their high standards, and I wish them well during these difficult times.

TIM DOLAN

Dolan was Minneapolis police chief from 2006 until his retirement in 2012.